Modern, Post-War and Contemporary Art, Decorative Arts, and Wine
Online-Only Auction, 31 May - 7 June 2021
Wine - Stellenbosch Theme
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
Thelema, the Greek word for ‘will’, was a charming dilapidated fruit farm until Gyles Webb came along and purchased the farm with the help of his wife’s family in 1983. Placed at the top of the Helshoogte Pass, Thelema is one of the highest and coolest estates in the area, its deep red soils make it ideal for premium quality wine grape production. At a time when the South African wine scene was focused on quantity rather than quality, Webb was a trailblazing pioneer on a mission to craft world-class wines. Construction began on the winery in 1987, and Thelema produced its first vintage in 1988. Winemaking since 2000 has been in the capable hands of Rudi Schultz, with Gyles's son Thomas involved in running the business.
Critics Ratings
‘Sublimely distinctive. Cocoa, mint, mineral and cassis aromas and flavors glide across the palate, strutting their concentration while remaining elegant and poised. Long, tongue-gripping finish echoes with fruit without being overblown. Lovely stuff.’ - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 91/100 (Oct 2002)
‘Bright red-ruby color. Tight, nicely defined aromas of raspberry, minerals, lead pencil, bitter chocolate, black licorice, mocha and mint. Sweet, minty and penetrating, with concentrated, urgent red berry, tobacco and spice flavors and vibrant acidity. Manages to be both supple and firm. Finishes with noble, harmonious tannins and excellent length.’ - Stephen Tanzer, Vinous, 90/100 (Mar 2003)
‘Long an icon of new-Cape quality and style. Deeply robed, as always, brambly bouquet with mocha, fennel. Elegant, refined, beautifully judged tannin frame for cedar/cassis spine.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2003, 5*
Provenance
Private Client
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